More than 400 companies, including around 50 from the European Union, gathered in Baghdad for the two-day Iraq National Trade and Investment Forum 2026, held on October 28-29 at the Babylon Rotana Hotel. The event attracted more than 750 registrations from businesses, government institutions, banks, chambers of commerce and international development organizations.
The forum was organized by Iraq’s Ministry of Trade in partnership with the Federation of Iraqi Chambers of Commerce, with support from the European Union and the International Trade Centre (ITC). Its main goal was to connect Iraqi businesses with international companies and create new opportunities for trade, investment and economic growth.
Held under the theme “Iraq-EU Partnership in Trade and Investment for Iraq’s Economic Transformation,” the event gave Iraqi companies a chance to meet potential buyers, suppliers, investors and technology partners. Companies from Austria, Czechia, Finland, France, Germany, Italy, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Poland and Sweden also took part.
The forum also focused on Iraq’s National Trade and Investment Strategy, which is being prepared under the leadership of the Ministry of Trade in coordination with the Prime Minister’s Office. The strategy aims to improve the business environment, attract more foreign investment and expand Iraq’s trade with regional and international markets.
Several important business sectors were discussed, including agriculture and food production, construction materials, housing, renewable energy, manufacturing, transportation, logistics and digital services. Discussions also covered Iraq’s efforts to join the World Trade Organization, improve trade and investment rules, build investor confidence and increase public investment.
Trade Minister Mustafa Nizar Al-Ani said the forum was designed to bring European companies together with Iraqi businesses and connect investors with projects. He added that the ministry would continue working after the event to follow up on agreements and help remove obstacles facing companies interested in doing business in Iraq.
International Trade Centre Executive Director Pamela Coke-Hamilton said Iraqi small and medium-sized businesses have the ability to serve both local and international markets. She added that stronger trade relationships could help these companies grow and compete globally.
The European Union also highlighted its commitment to expanding economic ties with Iraq. Henrike Trautmann, a European Commission official, said stronger cooperation could increase trade, attract investment, create jobs and support economic growth in both Iraq and Europe.
The event also featured an exhibition of Iraqi products through the “By Iraqi Hands” temporary supermarket, giving local businesses an opportunity to present their products to international buyers. Other sessions provided guidance on financing, commercial disputes, digital tools for agriculture and product quality.
The forum also included nine award categories recognizing achievements in innovation, Iraqi products, retail, women’s entrepreneurship, digital leadership, trade, investment, exports and green business.
According to organizers, since its first edition in 2022, the forum has brought together more than 1,000 participants and 700 companies and helped create an estimated €7.2 million in business opportunities.
The 2026 edition aimed to turn discussions into real business partnerships while supporting Iraq’s efforts to attract foreign investment, strengthen its private sector and build a more diverse economy.